Surrey duo ready for Ashes duty

Surrey pair Chris Tremlett and Steven Davies believe they can play vital roles in helping England bring the Ashes home this winter.

Towering seamer Tremlett was a surprise inclusion in the 16-man squad, while Davies will provide back-up to wicketkeeper Matt Prior in the Tests after impressing in the recent one-day series against Pakistan when he hit 87 at the top of the order in the opening game.

Neither is expected to feature as a first-choice pick, but Davies told Surrey TV: "I'm going as the second keeper, but just to be a part of it is a dream come true and I am looking forward to it.

"You never know what could happen on the tour - I could be playing in that first Test, if Matty gets ill or injured. I do feel more part of the squad now I've played that series against Pakistan.

"With everything around the series as well, we got quite close as a team and you probably saw that in the celebrations after the final game. It's not a feeling I've ever felt before on a cricket field and it was amazing.

"It was my first one-day international when I'd managed a score, 87, and that's quite important in anyone's career, to know you can do it and you belong there.

"I felt a lot more confident after that 87 and I think it showed, I felt I had a decent series."

Tremlett added: "I've not been in the (England) starting XI this season so all I can do is prepare well and if I get an opportunity in the practice games then do my best and go from there really.

"Obviously I was involved in 2005 and that was an amazing feeling but, going to Australia, it'd be extra special to bring the Ashes home.

"I'm so grateful and so honoured to be part of the Ashes squad and I want to grab the opportunity with both hands and enjoy it - and hopefully come back with the little urn."

England fly out on Friday and Tremlett continued: "There are the odd nerves but I think it'll be when I get off the plane that it really kicks in. The main feeling is excitement, I was packing my bags yesterday and it makes you feel part of it.

"The hype's been building ever since the squad came out, but I'm sure it's going to get more involved when we get over to Australia. You've got to relish that and enjoy it, and step out on that pitch all guns blazing."

Davies is optimistic the tourists can indeed return with the spoils, and said: "It's a massive series in Australia and it's going to be tough, although we're playing decent cricket and I think we are stronger than the Aussies at the moment.

"It's a very tough place to go and tour, with the Kookaburra balls and flat wickets, but we're so close now that I believe we will come out on top in this series. It's a big winter and hopefully I can play a decent part."